Joe Brent and Brian Dean have developed a new mandolin, the Grand Concert.
The first videos played with this mandolin are available at youtube, and I think that there will be some discussion about this new type of a mandolin.
Brian Dean has made a video with pictures from the construction of this mandolin, with music played by Joe Brent on the mandolin.
Slow Motion played by Joe Brent
The form of this mandolin resembles a small guitar, it has a true back and a second protective back that allows the true back to be a real resonance back. Joe Brent wanted an instrument that sounds clear from the lowest string up to the 27th fret, and one that could be played in a standing position. He also wanted an instrument that allows him to play with an ensemble without amplification. And I think he has got what he wanted.
The first video shows Joe together with clarinet and double bass:
Astor Piazzolla: Bandoneon
Joseph Brent, mandolin
Ken Robinson, clarinet
Eddy Khaimovich, bass
This video shows, that the sound of this mandolin has no problem to compete with a clarinet – this is one of my favorite videos:
Joseph Brent plays ‘Race For The Prize’ by The Flaming Lips
Joseph Brent plays ‘Slow Motion’ by The Flaming Lips
Additional Information
Website Brian Dean: Labraid
Website Joe Brent: http://www.josephbrent.com/
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